Longtime Liberal MP Navdeep Bains is stepping down as minister of innovation, science and industry.
In a Facebook video, Bains said now is the time to put his family first — and he could not be happier.
The Ontario MP said his family has sacrificed so much for him over the last 17 years of his political journey.
“This last year has been hard on families,” said Bains. “My daughters, who are in grade five and grade eight, have needed me more in the last year, and I’ve needed them, too.”
“It is time for me to focus on the most important job I have in life — being a dad.”
Bains also said he will not be re-offering in the next federal election but will continue to serve as MP until then.
He said he is grateful for the trust his community has shown him and thanked the prime minister for giving him the opportunity to be a cabinet minister.
“Whether it was investing in Canadians’ innovation, building their skills or executing the Made in Canada Project, which helped Canadians make personal protective equipment here at home, for me, it’s always been about generating opportunities, investing in people and creating jobs,” he said.
The prime minister has named François-Philippe Champagne the next minister of innovation, science and industry.
Marc Garneau will take over Champagne’s role as foreign affairs minister, while Omar Alghabra becomes transport minister.
